In September of 2023, I found myself faced with a unique challenge – keeping our school robotics team alive. With a limited budget and no available school staff volunteers, the future of our Vex Robotics Team hung in the balance. Little did I know, this experience would turn into a remarkable journey of collaboration, learning, and success.

The Challenge and the Team Formation

The school had initiated a Vex Robotics Team the previous year, but this time around, there were no funds to appoint a dedicated coach. Stepping into the void, I, a person with zero knowledge about robotics, took on the responsibility. The task at hand was to not only keep the team going but also to nurture it into something more significant.

Despite my lack of expertise, there was no shortage of interest from parents wanting their children to be part of the team. After discussions with the teachers and conversations with parents, I identified five enthusiastic students. I made it clear to parents that their involvement was crucial for the success of the team. The challenge then became creating a team with limited space, leading us to focus on establishing a Robotics Club.

The Birth of the Robotics Club

The initial meetings were filled with positive energy, both from students and parents. Despite the late start, the team geared up for its first competition set for early October. The collaborative spirit was evident as the kids, with minimal guidance, built a functional robot. Parents played a pivotal role, ensuring the students stayed focused and providing explanations when needed.

Recognizing the expertise of one parent in explaining complex concepts, I invited him to join as one of the coaches. Time was of the essence, and to expedite the process, a parent generously hosted a team-building session at their house. This hands-on session proved instrumental in shaping the first version of the robot.

Triumph at the First Competition

The hard work paid off at the first competition. Despite being up against middle schools, our team secured an impressive 2nd place overall. The success, however, was not a result of my coaching but a testament to the collective efforts of parents and students.

Drawing from years of teaching experience, I realized that effective teaching often involves careful preparation, setting clear goals, and allowing students to explore and discover on their own within a structured environment. This philosophy mirrored our approach to the robotics team’s first build.

The Evolution: From Team to Club

Inspired by the initial success, I extended this strategy when transitioning the initiative into the school’s first Robotics Club. With the support of dedicated parents and students, we organized two highly successful club events. The journey from a struggling robotics team to a thriving club underscored the significance of collaboration and shared enthusiasm.

Advice for Those Starting Their Robotics Journey

For school leaders and teachers looking to introduce robotics at the elementary level, my advice is simple – plan meticulously, prepare extensively, and don’t hesitate to seek parental assistance. Even if you’re unfamiliar with the world of robotics, with the right approach and a collaborative spirit, success is not only possible but highly achievable.

Embarking on a robotics program may seem daunting, especially when you’re not well-versed in the subject matter. However, as our journey demonstrates, passion, planning, and teamwork can transform a challenge into a fulfilling and successful venture. The world of Vex Robotics is waiting to be explored, and with the right support, any school can nurture a thriving robotics community.